Getter and setter methods in C++ - Cheat Sheet & Quick Revision

Recall & Review

beginner

What is a getter method in C++?

A getter method is a function that returns the value of a private class member variable. It allows controlled read access to the variable.

beginner

What is a setter method in C++?

A setter method is a function that sets or updates the value of a private class member variable. It allows controlled write access to the variable.

intermediate

Why do we use getter and setter methods instead of making variables public?

Getter and setter methods protect the data by controlling how variables are accessed or changed. This helps keep data safe and allows validation before changing values.

beginner

Show a simple example of a getter and setter for a private int variable named 'age'.

class Person {
private:
    int age;
public:
    int getAge() const { return age; }
    void setAge(int a) { if(a >= 0) age = a; }
};

intermediate

What happens if you try to set a negative age using the setter in the example?

The setter checks if the age is negative. If it is, it does not change the value, so the age stays valid (non-negative).

What is the main purpose of a getter method?

A To read the value of a private variable

B To write a value to a private variable

C To delete a variable

D To create a new variable

A getter method allows reading the value of a private variable safely.

Which keyword usually describes variables accessed by getters and setters?

A static

B public

C private

D const

Variables are usually private to protect them and accessed via getters and setters.

What can a setter method do before changing a variable?

A Validate the new value

B Print the variable

C Delete the variable

D Convert the variable to string

Setters often check if the new value is valid before updating the variable.

Which of these is a correct setter signature for an int variable 'score'?

A void getScore();

B void setScore(int s);

C int getScore(int s);

D int setScore();

Setters usually return void and take the new value as a parameter.

If a class has a private variable, how can code outside the class access it safely?

A Directly accessing the variable

B By copying the class

C Using global variables

D Using getter and setter methods

Getters and setters provide controlled access to private variables.

Explain what getter and setter methods are and why they are useful in C++ classes.

Think about how to safely read and change private variables.

Write a simple C++ class with a private string variable and add getter and setter methods for it.

Remember getters return the variable, setters take a parameter to update it.